The Gladiator actor and the moviemaker had hoped to meet the pontiff and secure endorsement for their biblical epic during their trip to Italy this week, but reports suggested Vatican officials turned them down.

However, the pair was eventually granted a brief meeting with the Pope after being invited to join the official VIP section of Wednesday morning's general address in the Vatican, Italy. The event takes place every Wednesday is open to the public.

Crowe posted pictures of the event on his Twitter.com, adding, "What a privilege, attended the Udienza with the holy father..."

He later wrote, "Ciao Roma (goodbye Rome), my love for your eternal light just grows deeper. Thank you holy father... for the blessing."